One whose troops repeatedly congregate in small groups here and there, whispering together, has lost the masses. One who frequently grants rewards is in deep distress. One who frequently imposes punishments is in great difficulty. One who is at first excessively brutal and then fears the masses is the pinnacle of stupidity.

So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong, and strike at what is weak.

We may distinguish six kinds of terrain, to wit: (1) Accessible ground; (2) entangling ground; (3) temporising ground; (4) narrow passes; (5) precipitous heights; (6) positions at a great distance from the enemy.

The consummate leader cultivates the moral law, and strictly adheres to method and discipline; thus it is in his power to control success.

When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce.

On the field of battle, the spoken word does not carry far enough; hence the institution of gongs and drums... banners and flags. Gongs and drums, banners and flags, are means whereby the ears and eyes of the host may be focused on one particular point.

The rising of birds in their flight is the sign of an ambuscade. Startled beasts indicate that a sudden attack is coming.